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Wed, 14 Nov 2018 17:36:24 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.8The Truth About These 5 Automotive Repair Mythshttps://portersbodyshopms.com/the-truth-about-these-5-automotive-repair-myths/
Wed, 07 Nov 2018 01:42:12 +0000http://portersbodyshopms.com/?p=685We truly hope that you never have to deal with a collision repair; accidents can be scary, expensive, and stressful. But, if you are in an accident, we’re here to simplify the process so you’re prepared and you can get your car back to normal as quickly and stress-free as possible.

Let’s uncover some common collision repair myths so you understand the truth behind them.

1. You have to take your car to the repair shop your insurance company chooses.

Actually, your insurance company has no right whatsoever to demand that you use a specific repair shop. You have the right to choose and if your insurance company tells you otherwise, it’s called steering and it’s illegal.

They may make suggestions (you can always ask) but you are under no obligation to listen to your insurance company.

2. Only the dealership can fix your car like new again.

Auto repair and collision repair shops can access repair guides from the automotive manufacturer who made your car and often repair your vehicle just as well in less time or for less money.

Some dealerships may have great repair programs, but they can also be really pricey or focus on other aspects of business more than repairs.

3. Your insurance company always covers the cost of every repair.

Depending on your insurance policy, your insurance company may cover all of your repairs, they may cover some, or they may not cover them at all. If you have coverage called “collision coverage” as part of your policy, that’s usually where the details regarding repair of your vehicle are listed. Always ask your insurance company if you’re not sure.

4. You need three estimates before your insurance company will pay.

This is not true at all, one estimate is plenty. However, if you’re shopping around for the right collision repair shop, it might be in your best interest to get multiple estimates. Your insurance company will usually perform their own estimate once you choose a shop.

5. The insurance company’s estimate is always right and they won’t pay a penny more.

Your insurance company might negotiate with the repair shop if they think the estimate is too high; the end goal is to get a safe and affordable repair. However, the insurance company is required to pay according to your policy

The temperature is dropping steadily, especially at night. That means the molecules in the air are moving slower and there is less space between them, which is why you might notice your tire pressure dropping too.

Check your tire pressure and if you notice it’s low, top it up early in the morning or in the evening for the best results.

Watch Out for Deer and Small Animals

Deer are on the move this time of year, and they don’t always look both ways before darting into the street. Depending on where you live, keep your eye open for foxes, coyotes, raccoons, squirrels, moose, cats, and other small mammals.

Especially when driving near thick trees or grassy areas without much development, keep your headlights on, use your brights when you’re the only car around, and take extra care when going around corners and curves.

Beware of Changing Weather

As the days grow shorter, the wind blows a little harder, the rain falls a little more often, and the days are a little bit cloudier, our driving habits need to adjust.

Summer vacations have ended, roads are crowded with school and rush-hour traffic, and autumn storms can create hazardous conditions. Summer construction projects may be ending, but look out for overnight road works and new projects that are just starting.

Bridges are especially vulnerable to ice at night when the temperature drops after a rain. Instead of rushing, leave yourself a little extra time to get where you’re going.

Be Mindful of Sunlight Hours

With fewer daylight hours, more of us are commuting in the dark and during dawn and dusk, when the sun is directly in drivers’ eyes. East-west roads are particularly difficult around the equinox at sunrise and sunset.

Don’t forget your sunglasses, keep your windshield clean, and be extra cautious. If it’s hard for you to see, it’s hard for other drivers and pedestrians to see too.

Upgrade your Emergency Kit

Summer emergency kits can be used in the fall, but make sure to add some autumn essentials.

]]>https://portersbodyshopms.com/fall-driving-safety-tips-avoid-single-car-crashes/feed/0Minimum Car Insurance Requirementshttps://portersbodyshopms.com/minimum-car-insurance-requirements/
https://portersbodyshopms.com/minimum-car-insurance-requirements/#respondMon, 27 Aug 2018 20:08:13 +0000https://portersbodyshopms.com/?p=671The required car insurance depends on the state in which you live and register your vehicle. Most states require insurance, and those that don’t still holds drivers financially responsible for damaging property and people in the case of an accident.

What does minimum car insurance cover?

Again, insurance coverage is different in each state, so it’s important to check the insurance commissioner for requirements. The purpose of car insurance, especially required car insurance, is to ensure that medical costs and property damage can be paid in the case of an accident.

The minimum insurance required in each state usually includes at least one of the following four types of coverage. It’s common to require only the first two. Each state may require coverage only up to a certain amount, but after reaching that limit you’ll still be responsible to cover the rest of the costs.

Bodily Injury Liability Coverage

Usually, this coverage is designed to protect the person or people in the other car in the case of an accident. That way if you injure someone while you’re driving, you’re not left with a hefty medical bill.

You can also add protection for yourself and your passengers, but in a different part of your policy.

Property Damage Liability Coverage

This coverage is meant to cover the cost of property damage caused in an accident. This might include a building or signpost, another car, or something else. It is not intended to protect your own vehicle or cover the cost of your own vehicle repairs.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

Unlike bodily injury liability protection, which only covers others involved in the accident, PIP covers the cost of injury or death for you, your passengers, or any pedestrians involved in the accident.

Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage

When you’re in an accident with another person whose insurance is meant to cover your costs, but they either don’t have insurance or the funds to cover it, or their insurance limits don’t cover your costs, this portion of your policy can step up and cover the difference so you aren’t stuck with the bill.

]]>https://portersbodyshopms.com/minimum-car-insurance-requirements/feed/0Your Rights as a Car Repair Consumerhttps://portersbodyshopms.com/your-rights-as-a-car-repair-consumer/
https://portersbodyshopms.com/your-rights-as-a-car-repair-consumer/#respondFri, 03 Aug 2018 12:09:09 +0000https://portersbodyshopms.com/?p=663There are certain topics that every car owner should know when having their vehicle repaired. Taking your car to the repair shop isn’t generally something people are familiar with (because hopefully it doesn’t happen all that often!) But, if you are in an accident, it’s important that you know your rights as a consumer.

These consumer rights can help you ensure that your car is repaired correctly, safely, quickly, and within your budget.You have the right to choose your own repair shop.

In most cases, when your car is in an accident, you can choose the shop you want to repair it. Ask your friends, have a quick Google, and look for local shops!

You can ask your insurance company for suggestions but if they’re telling you that you only have a few options, don’t believe them. This is called steering and in most states, it’s illegal.

You have the right to choose your repair parts.

If parts of your car need to be replaced, you can have a say in which parts are used!

Usually, you can choose from three kinds of parts: OEM, non-OEM, or recycled parts. However, depending on your insurance policy, only certain kinds of parts may be covered. (This doesn’t mean that’s your only option!) Each kind of part has unique benefits and costs so if you’re not sure, ask your repair tech or do a little research.

In many states, if a shop is going to use anything other than OEM parts, they’ll need to notify you. To be proactive, ask your repair shop before the repair.

You have the right to a safely and correctly repaired car.

When you take your vehicle to be repaired, you are paying for a service and you can rightfully expect that your vehicle will be repaired correctly and when repairs are completed, it will be returned to you in a safe condition for driving.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions so you understand how your car is repaired, what is being repaired, what is being replaced, and what to expect. You can ask about your technicians and their qualifications or experience, what they’re doing and why, and what your options are.

Get involved!

The first step in successful collision repair is knowing your rights. The next step is to get involved! When you’re choosing your repair shop, don’t be afraid to ask questions. A great repair shop will answer them and help you understand.

]]>https://portersbodyshopms.com/your-rights-as-a-car-repair-consumer/feed/0Summer Trip Driving Tipshttps://portersbodyshopms.com/summer-trip-driving-tips/
Tue, 17 Jul 2018 14:03:28 +0000https://portersbodyshopms.com/?p=656With more people on the roads in the summer, it’s no surprise that car accidents increase during the warmer months too. Summer brings other challenges to drivers too: more road construction, longer days with sleepier drivers, and more drunk driving.

Taking a few minutes to review summer driving safety tips can make a big difference in knowing what to look out for and how to stay safe on the road.

Take Care of your Car

Regular maintenance is important! Keeping your car in tip-top shape helps prevent big things from going wrong whether you’re on your way to the grocery store or driving across the country.

Always make sure that children and pets are buckled in tightly and not running around in the car. Not only can they be distracting to the driver if they’re not buckled up, but if you are in an accident, their safety could be at risk. Don’t forget entertainment, water, and healthy snacks for everyone!

When you load your belongings into the back, keep the following in mind:

● Don’t block the driver’s view – this can be dangerous, especially with heavy traffic.
● Distribute the weight evenly to make maneuvering the vehicle easier.
● If you don’t need it, don’t bring it! Extra weight can affect mileage and isn’t good for your car.
● Don’t forget about the roof, especially if you’re entering a parking garage or going under a low bridge!

Take Regular Driving Breaks

If you have more than one driver, take turns driving! Everyone tires of driving after a while, and when we’re fatigued, our reaction times slow and we’re risking the safety of us, our passengers, and others on the road.

Children and pets will likely appreciate a break too! Rest stops along major U.S. highways are perfect for picnics, food, bathroom breaks, and walking.

Anticipate an Accident and be Prepared

If you are in an accident, things will go smoother if you’re prepared. Have an emergency kit for breakdowns and accidents that includes the following:

]]>Confused By Auto Insurance Terms?https://portersbodyshopms.com/confused-by-auto-insurance-terms/
https://portersbodyshopms.com/confused-by-auto-insurance-terms/#respondSat, 16 Jun 2018 20:08:18 +0000https://portersbodyshopms.com/?p=648After you’ve been in an accident, you have a lot going on. The last thing you need when you’re worried about getting your car repaired quickly, safely, and affordably is a bunch of confusing car insurance terms to work through! Check out our guide to auto insurance words you might hear in a collision repair shop.

Act of God

When something out of human control or influence happens (that damages a vehicle) it’s called an Act of God. Things like forest fires, tornadoes and other storms, earthquakes, floods, or a volcanic eruption fall into this category. Acts of God are generally covered under comprehensive coverage, not collision or liability.

Additional Insured or Additional Interest

A person other than the main insured person who is also covered on an insurance policy is an additional insured. For example, if your car is leased, your leasing company is likely an additional insured on your policy.

Carrier

The insurance company, or insurance carrier, is the entity that issues an insurance policy. It’s called a carrier because it carries certain risks in lieu of the main insured person.

Claim

Any request or demand for the carrier to pay according to the insurance policy is called a claim. The person who makes the claim is the claimant.

Coverage

The benefits and protections that are named in an insurance policy constitute the coverage. Each portion of the policy is subject to the terms and conditions of that specific policy, so your coverage may not be the same as your neighbor’s even if you use the same carrier.

No Fault Insurance

Some states require insurance companies to pay losses of their policyholders that are covered in the claims without regard to fault in an accident. This doesn’t mean they have to pay for everything, it just means that the policy kicks in when a covered accident happens and not when fault is determined.

Comparative Negligence

This legal principle is applicable in certain states and means that even when a driver is partly at fault for an accident, they’re still able to make a partial claim. The negligence of each party is compared to that of the other party and the claim depends on the percentage of responsibility.

Contributory Negligence

This legal principle is applicable in certain states and means that a driver who is at fault, even a little bit, is not able to make a claim on their insurance policy.

Deductible

Insurance policies include a deductible, or a set fee that the covered party is responsible to pay toward damages before the insurance can be paid out.

Exclusions

An exclusion is something that is not covered under an insurance policy. It may be a certain event, person, property, situation, or something else. For example, it’s unlikely that damage caused by drag racing is covered under an auto insurance policy, even if an accident occurs.

Loss

This is the amount the insurance company pays out on any given claim.

Steering

If an insurer tries to get a vehicle owner to use a certain repair shop, it’s called steering. Steering is illegal in most states and vehicle owners have the right to choose their own repair shop.

]]>https://portersbodyshopms.com/confused-by-auto-insurance-terms/feed/0Caring for Your Car’s New Paint after a Repairhttps://portersbodyshopms.com/caring-for-your-cars-new-paint-after-a-repair/
https://portersbodyshopms.com/caring-for-your-cars-new-paint-after-a-repair/#respondThu, 17 May 2018 22:03:21 +0000https://portersbodyshopms.com/?p=644Your car has been to the collision shop, it’s been repaired, made to look new, and you’ve taken it home. If it had a new paint job, your body shop technicians were meticulous in ensuring that the new paint matched the old paint. Paint is tasked with protecting your car from rust, so it’s up to you to keep it in shape.

Look for Flaws

As with any repair, if you notice something isn’t right, say something as soon as possible. This goes for paint too! One of the hardest parts about painting a car after a repair is matching the original paint.

Look at the color on a bright sunny day.

Check up close and from a distance.

Look for hairs, dirt and overspray.

The paint should be smooth and even.

Take Extra Care for 30-60 Days

When your car was new, you were probably extra careful with it, protecting its shiny new paint and treating it with some fragility. After a major repair, this is a great way to treat fresh paint! It needs time to cure and harden before it can truly protect your car. While new cars have time in a protected environment before they’re sold, a fresh repair is back out on the road ASAP. Make sure to give your paint a little extra love and care.

The following are some everyday things that can damage your paint.

Dirt Roads & Construction Zones

Loose gravel and dirt is on the road, it’s unavoidable. If you can avoid dirt roads and major construction zones while your paint is fresh, it will go a long way in protecting your paint, which is vulnerable to chips and scrapes from flying debris.

Scraping or Chipping at Snow or Ice

In winter (or long-lasting spring), chipping away at snow and ice on your windshield is necessary. Make sure you’re not scraping it from the paint too!

Splattered Bugs

Splattered bugs on the windshield are an obvious annoyance, but thanks to the acidity of bug splatter (ew!) they’re also damaging to your paint and can become permanently etched into the surface.

Bird Droppings

As gross as it is go find bird poop on your car, the droppings can also be full of acidic berries, hard seeds, and other grainy bits that can dull and scratch the paint on your car.

Tree Sap

Parking under a tree leaves your car vulnerable to more than damage from animals, it might leave your car covered in sap! Sticky and full of chemicals that aren’t meant to interact with car paint, it’s best to find another shady spot to leave your car.

Sunlight

Sunlight can also damage your paint. The UV rays cause paint to dull and fade, just like they can damage your skin.

Commercial Car Washes

Keeping your car clean is an important part of protecting the paint! It’s best to hand-wash new paint in cool water with mild soap with a soft sponge or cloth. Don’t use chemicals, avoid dish or laundry detergent, and make sure your water is clean and not full of dust and pebbles. Avoid leaving it to dry in the sun.

]]>https://portersbodyshopms.com/caring-for-your-cars-new-paint-after-a-repair/feed/0Do you need a Diagnostic Repair Scan?https://portersbodyshopms.com/do-you-need-a-diagnostic-repair-scan/
https://portersbodyshopms.com/do-you-need-a-diagnostic-repair-scan/#respondFri, 20 Apr 2018 02:28:20 +0000https://portersbodyshopms.com/?p=639So you’ve been in an accident, you’ve gotten estimates, selected your collision repair shop, and you’re ready to have your car back! Your repair technician brought up something called a pre and post collision diagnostic repair scan, but you’re not convinced it’s necessary. So, what do you need to know to make an informed decision?

A diagnostic scan looks for errors in your car’s computer systems.

A diagnostic scan looks at every computer system, sensor, or automatic feature in your car to make sure they’re working right. Today’s vehicles are full of so much technology that they often have hundreds or thousands of computer systems working together to operate things like cruise control, rear backup cameras, blind spot sensors, or lane departure warnings.

Virtually every car produced since 1996 can benefit from a scan.

The mid-90s brought us the first car with computer systems that did not trigger dashboard warning lights. The number of computers in cars today is so much higher than the number of dashboard warning lights – there isn’t room to put that many warning lights in a car.

Today’s computer systems are so diverse, they change so rapidly, and they aren’t standard among different auto manufacturers that there isn’t one scanning system that works for every vehicle. They require wireless access

Your insurance company may not want to pay.

Insurance companies and auto manufacturers are in disagreement over when diagnostic repair scans are necessary. Most original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), like Ford, Honda, and GM, have released statements saying that diagnostic scans are necessary for most cars after an accident to ensure passenger safety. Insurance companies want more clarity and more specific guidelines so they aren’t paying for unnecessary scans, or scans that don’t find any errors.

Auto manufacturers release repair guidelines for every car.

Every auto manufacturer (OEM) releases repair procedures for every make and model of every vehicle they produce. Your repair technician should always follow the OEM repair procedures. If these procedures state that a diagnostic scan is necessary, it’s likely for your safety.

If you have questions, don’t be afraid to ask your repair technician or your insurance company!

What can you do about diagnostic scans?

You can find many of the official OEM statements regarding diagnostic scans at www.oem1stop.com. If your insurance company states that they won’t pay for a scan and your repair technician says it’s necessary, call your insurance company.

(Ford, Toyota, and Volkswagen are examples of OEMs. These companies create specific repair procedures for the vehicles they design and produce. Auto repair shops should always follow these instructions.)

What does a ‘Pre- and Post-Repair Diagnostic Scan’ do for you?

Your vehicle is composed of many parts, including computers and electronic systems. Diagnostic scans identify issues in all of your vehicle’s electronic systems. These problems can’t be identified any other way (until they cause serious safety issues).

The pre-repair diagnostic scan identifies all computer systems and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that exist after an accident. DTCs show which systems need to be repaired or calibrated. Accident damage, including dents, broken glass, or battery or electrical problems, can cause problems in computer systems that trigger DTCs!

The post-repair diagnostic scan ensures that all the computer systems are working properly after your repair so your car is safe for you to drive. (No DTCs should appear.) Taking your vehicle apart and putting parts back together can trigger DTCs, even if it’s just a bumper or a door handle!

What kinds of computer systems does your car have?

If your car was manufactured after 1996, it has enough computer systems that a diagnostic safety scan can find issues that can’t be found any other way. These computer systems and sensors run through nearly every part of your car, from your windshield and door handles to the inside of your gas tank and your engine.

Scans can identify specific problems in computer systems – warning lights only show that a problem exists. Not every computer system triggers a dashboard warning light.

In 2017, the entry level Honda – the Honda Fit – had up to 500 possible codes that can come up on a scan. The most elite option, like a Honda Pilot, can have 1,000! It’s not possible to have a warning light for every system, and it hasn’t been since before 1996.

Why are we telling you this?

Although these scans are only required for your safety, insurance companies aren’t always willing to pay for them. The decision to scan or not is yours and we want you to make an informed decision.

Will your insurance cover it?

Depending on your policy and your insurance company, diagnostic scans may be covered.

Insurance companies who won’t cover the costs of these scans in any policy are primarily concerned with their business, not your safety. Covering the cost of diagnostic scanning will cost them money and may lead them to increase their prices, which isn’t good for business.
If you believe your insurance company should cover the cost of your diagnostic scans, call them.

For More Information

OEM1Stop.com is a website created by a group of auto manufacturers. It lists their opinions on diagnostic scanning and is available to you and your insurance company.

]]>Tips for Pet Safety in the Carhttps://portersbodyshopms.com/tips-for-pet-safety-in-the-car/
https://portersbodyshopms.com/tips-for-pet-safety-in-the-car/#respondTue, 31 Oct 2017 23:30:21 +0000https://portersbodyshopms.com/?p=591Taking pets in the car is necessary sometimes, whether you’re going on a family vacation or taking them to the vet. Travel can be stressful for both you and your pet, but a little planning can go a long way in ensuring comfort and safety for everyone.

Have the appropriate space ready.

When you take your pets in the car, ensuring they’re safely restrained is as much for your safety as it is for theirs. A crate or carrier with plenty of ventilation and a view of a window can help your pet avoid car sickness or getting too hot. A carrier also keeps your pet safer in the case of an accident.

For some animals, like dogs, you can find seat belt restraint systems designed to hold a carrier in place.

Especially on long drives, don’t let your pet stick his or her head out the window. This can be distracting for you or other drivers, and your pet could potentially be hit in the head.

Set a feeding schedule.

Even if you’re taking your pet on a long drive, try not to feed him or her in the car. Plan breaks when it’s feeding time and give everybody a chance to stretch their legs and use the bathroom. Feed your pet a few hours before you leave rather than right before takeoff.

Pack a pet travel kit.

Pets may not need to pack a bag of clothes, but they certainly need things with them on the road. Pack a bag for your pet with the following:

Travel papers,

An ID tag on your pet’s collar,

Food and bowls,

A leash,

A waste scoop and plastic bags or a travel litter box,

A favorite toy,

Grooming supplies,

A recent photo of your pet, and

Any medication with a pet first aid kit.

If you’re traveling across state lines, you may need your pet’s rabies vaccination record, depending on the state.

Don’t leave your pet in a parked car alone.

No matter what the weather is like, leaving your pet alone in a hot car can be scary and dangerous! Always make sure that your pet can stay with you as you travel.

Take a practice run.

Planning is key here. When you’ve followed all the tips above, give your pet a chance to adjust to the car carrier at home, and then take a few shorter drives so your pet can adjust.